Do You Have a Dental Emergency?

Posted March 29, 2017byStephens and Gatewood

Dental emergencies come in all shapes and sizes, and can involve a variety of different issues. Usually, however, emergencies share one thing in common; an immediate need to seek help from your dentist. While the first thing you should do is to call your dentist and schedule emergency dental treatment, there are other steps you should take to minimize damage to your teeth and make restoring your smile easier.

What to Do Immediately

In most cases, dental emergencies involve damage to one or more teeth, such as chips, cracks, breaks, and often, complete avulsion (when a tooth is knocked out of its socket). Before calling your dentist, check to see the extent of damage to your tooth, and rinse your mouth carefully with warm water to wash away any debris. If bleeding occurs around the tooth, then bite down gently on a clean, moist piece of gauze until the bleeding stops, or until you make it to the dentist’s office. If your tooth is knocked out completely, then collect it (if possible), rinse it carefully, and store it in a small container of milk. Bring the tooth in the container to your visit.

Until You See Your Dentist

After you’ve called and scheduled an emergency dental visit, you can temporarily relieve any discomfort by taking an over-the-counter pain medication, such as Aspirin or Tylenol. If swelling occurs, then place an ice pack or cold compress to the corresponding side of your cheek. Avoid eating and drinking anything until your appointment, and be sure to bring a responsible adult with you who can drive you back home in case you need to undergo dental sedation before treatment.

Call Us in Case of Emergency

If you have a dental emergency, then don’t hesitate to contact us and schedule an emergency visit! Call Stephens and Gatewood Dentistry in Auburn Lakes at 281-320-2000. Located in Spring, TX, we also proudly serve the residents of Houston, The Woodlands, Tomball, Cypress, and all surrounding communities.